Attracting Butterflies Through Effective Butterfly Garden Landscaping

Some of the most beautiful animals in the world are butterflies. Rich in color and life, these insects are a pleasure to behold. Unfortunately, many species of butterflies have become instinct as their living space and food supply are threatened by humans.

However, a person can help protect them or even increase their numbers by making a butterfly garden. Butterfly garden landscaping works by growing plants that attract butterflies. Done properly, this kind of garden can be paradise for insect wildlife.

The first thing to do in butterfly garden landscaping is to locate a sunny spot in the garden. Butterflies need the sun's warmth for their wing muscles to work efficiently. In fact, one can usually see them stretch their wings out in the sun, warming up enough to fly.

It is also important to put up the garden in an area that is clear of strong winds. Butterflies do not like strong winds and will avoid those kinds of places.

The next thing to consider in butterfly garden landscaping is to choose the plants well. There are four factors to keep in mind when making the selection. First, they should be brightly colored and scented. Butterflies are attracted to bright colors and strong fragrances.

Second, the plants should produce nectar since nectar is a staple food for butterflies. Nowadays, nectar producing plants are easy to grow. Planting different varieties of nectar producing flowers will attract even more species since some species are particular about the kind of nectar they eat.

Third, choose flowering plants that will bloom at different times in a season. This will ensure that the garden will always be colorful and attractive to butterflies. Furthermore, it ensures a steady supply of food for different species of butterflies.

Fourth, the garden should also have an abundance of host plants for the butterflies to lay their eggs on. The best host plants are the leafy ones where they can be source of shelter and food for larvae and caterpillars.

Providing an area with a rocky ledge is also a good idea for effective butterfly garden landscaping. Butterflies often perch on rocks to bask in the sun.

With the garden being an ideal habitat for butterflies, it is important to avoid the use of insecticides. These chemicals are toxic to butterflies.

Instead, use plants that are native to the area. Such plants already developed resistance to local pests and disease, reducing the need for pesticides. Also, introduce other creatures such as earthworms, ants or beetles. These insects eat up other insects that prey on flowers. Let nature take its course.

Effective butterfly garden landscaping will reward the gardener with a beautiful view of these lovely creatures. But more importantly, they provide these creatures a chance to survive and enjoy life of their own.